Ely Buendia

The historic walls of Intramuros staged this year’s biggest and longest running rock competition, Red Horse Muziklaban. Running for 16 years already, it featured the country’s most sought after bands which have been on the scene as long or if not longer than the Muziklaban competition itself. For this year, the bands were not only performers but also mentors to the 5 finalists (IKACO, Ex-Manager Band, Through the Waves, Nobela and Blood Over Matter) as well.

Red Horse Muziklaban again held one of the biggest gathering of the country’s best rock bands last February 2, 2013.

So many bands performed in this event that I have to cut this post part by part.

First up are none other than the guitarists that rocked the night.

Paolo Peralta of Turbo Goth

Paolo Peralta performed alongside Ely Buendia and his band Pupil. Even with Ely’s presence, it was not hard to be awed by his performance and his flying guitar.

Tirso Ripoll of Razorback

I am not exactly sure what was going on when I took this photo. But hey, its Tirso Ripoll and for anyone who has been a fan of Razorback surely knows how they strut their stuff.

Ocho Toleran of Queso

Paolo Toleran, most known as Eight or Ocho performed with Queso (formerly Cheese). He also became part of the supergroup Franco, which surprisingly had recently fallen out.

Francis Brew Reyes of Peso Movement; RHB’s main event host

Francis Reyes, formerly of NU 107’s In the Raw, former guitarist of The Dawn, current guitarist for Peso Movement is one of the best guitarists there is in the Philippines. I am not just saying that because I am a fan, but I really do have high respects for this man.

Manuel Legarda of Razorback

Manuel Legarda is also from Razorback and of course Wolfgang. Aside from his mestizo good looks, his rapid guitar riffs has earned him the “Guitarist of the Year” award from NU 107 rock awards.

Pepe Smith

Pepe Smith performed with Juan Dela Cruz (well, not really the original line up). He is recognized as Philippine’s Rock Living Legend. Even in his age, he can still strut out the tunes, “Gusto ko mag-swimming sa balong malalim”.

Ely Buendia of Pupil

Frontman and guitarist of Pupil, Ely Buendia is another rock legend. He may not be the best guitarist there is but his very presence on stage sends out an aura of confidence and intimidation.

Last July 22, 2011, Friday, Pupil launched their much anticipated music video of 20/20 from their 3rd album Limiters of the Infinity Pool. A mini concert event was held at the 5L Top Shelf Fully Booked High Street with guests Mayo Baluyut with the Revenge Avenger and Outerhope.

Pupil opened with “Let Her Rip”, then played 10 more songs prior to the showing of the music video.

THE SETLIST

Pupil is fronted by none other than Ely Buendia on lead vocals and guitars, with Yan Yuzon on lead guitar, Dok Sergio on bass, and Wendell Garcia on drums.